Wigging Out: Toni Braxton

The diva is back with a vengeance and looking amazing! Stills from the video shoot for her new single "Yesterday" surfaced yesterday and I am so excited! She has always been a trend setting Hairnista and these pics show she's still has the goods to keep people talking. I am loving her haute short wig (always a great look for her) and lengthy tresses. Toni is a true Hairnista...never afraid to push the boundaries and try new looks. To other female celebs of her era take note: This is how you make a comeback!

Dr. Michael Lorin Reed talks "Good Hair, Self-Esteem"

My fellow Hairnistas at LockandMane.com did a great Q&A with hair expert Dr. Michael Lorin Reed. I enjoyed it so much I wanted to pass it on to all of you. Enjoy!


Dr. Michael Lorin Reed is a renowned dermatologist and hair expert in Manhattan. He recently published the book “Women’s Hair Loss: The Hidden Epidemic,” a tome in which he seeks to take his three decades of helping women with the problem of hair loss. Dr. Reed sees women when they are going through one of the most difficult times in their life and this is because hair is really really really important.



That’s why we asked Dr. Mike to explain a few things about the meaning of hair to us ladies in light of all the controversy Chris Rock’s new movie “Good Hair” is generating.



What is the big deal about hair anyway?

Dr. Reed: Hair is unique and it is the first thing we see on someone that makes him or her an individual. That’s why we talk about people having a good hair and not a good skin day.



Do we make too big a deal out of it?

Dr. Reed: Yes and no. It is true that since hair is the first thing we see on a person we do tend to judge them so a woman who is self conscious of her hair is usually right to believe that someone actually is staring at her and making a judgement about what they see.



Chris Rock is getting both praise and flack for ‘Good Hair.’ Why do you think this is?

Dr. Reed: That is a great question. I think that he addressed something that a lot of women don’t want to talk about and that is the fact that we live in this society that values straight long shiny hair and that is a goal that is difficult for the African American woman to achieve without a lot of effort on her part. I think that Mr. Rock was just trying to start a conversation.



Have a question for Dr. Reed? Worried about female pattern hair loss for you or a loved one? Send us your questions to jo@lockandmane.com.

Ain't Love Grand? Eva & Tony for London Fog

HOTTT!

Eva Longoria-Parker is one that people either love or hate (I love!). Whatever your personal thoughts are, I think we all would have to agree that this Celeb Hairnista hits it out of the park on this shoot. She and Tony look amazing and her hair is in full "Texas" mode...simply fabulous. I like that she always goes back to the long, full layers. It works for her. She isn't one to fade into the background and this look is a perfect fit.

To get this look:
Clip-ins or some form or extensions are your friend. This look calls for drama and that equals pieces. While this look may be a bit much for your day to day life, if you have an anniversary or special night coming up...pull out all the stops. Take it even further and set up your own sexy shoot with your special someone.

images via JustJared

Super Sealant: Argan Oil

Moroccan Oil is THE hot topic in hair right now. There are many derivatives of it out there, but it's base is Argan oil. Native to Morocco, this oil is magic in a bottle. I use Agadir Argan oil (one of the most pure versions on the market) and it has truly become something I can't live without. It can be used on wet or dry hair to give much needed moisture, soothe dry ends, and help prevent split ends. I use it in the following ways:

Hot Oil Treatment
warm a small amount of oil, add to damp hair, sit under hooded dryer w/ plastic cap for 20mins

Leave-in
add a dime sized amount to your favorite leave-in (or on its own) and style hair as usual

Daily Styling
place a small amount of hair on your fingertips and apply to ends to protect them from daily wear and tear
apply to edges/nape to keep that delicate hair moisturized
use a dab to tame pesky fly-aways

This oil is alcohol free, very light, and no build-up. I recommend it for Hairnistas of every hair type. You'll thank me :)

Mad for "Mad Men" - January Jones in GQ

As Betty Draper on Mad Men, January Jones is the ultimate desperate housewife on prime time TV. She has captured the perfectly coiffed and elegantly appointed "lady" of days gone by. Here in GQ she doesn't disappoint. They've channeled Old Hollywood elegance with a modern twist...and she looks amazing. I'm loving her tousled mid-length locks and red lips.

To have your own "Mad Men" Moment: set you hair on hot rollers for volume and then pin curl to set. Brush out curls with a paddle brush and smooth into soft wave. Use light hold hairspray/spritz to set.

To have your GQ moment: curl your hair with a big barrel curling iron. Use your hands and run through the curls for a tousled, "bed head" look.

Top off with a hot red lip and you're all set :)

images via GQ.com, JustJared

Sneak Peek: SATC 2

I cannot wait for this movie! Every time pics from the set surface I get excited all over again. I'm loving the chignon on Carrie and Samantha's waves are a great option...keeping her face soft, which is very important for Hairnistas of a certain age. Miley's waist length extensions have me going through withdrawal right now! I may need to rock clip-ins tomorrow to get my fix :)

In need of a good Girl's Night idea? Pull out your SATC DVDs (I know you have them!), get the cocktails ready, have everyone bring their wigs, falls, hairpieces, clip-ins, etc and style each other as your favorite character. Take plenty of pics and this should hold you until it's premiere time.

How Do You Fight Frizz? Lock & Mane.com Giveaway!!

I'm always on the lookout for great sites and info to pass on to my fellow Hairnistas. Thanks to the wonder of Twitter, I found a fabulous site you all should check out: www.LockandMane.com. For the Hairnista that wants the best in haircare, you'll be in heaven. They're also featured in the November issue of InStyle as their fave luxury hair product destination. Well my lovelies, here is your chance to treat yourselves. At LockandMane as well as here at THC we understand that no matter your race, hair texture, frizzy hair is a problem that unites all women. Courtesy of LockandMane here are 10 Fab Frizz Fighting Tips. I even picked up a new tip and you may too! Send your best frizz fighting tip to jo@lockandmane.com or Tweet it to www.twitter.com/lockandmane. The best tip will win an exclusive frizz-fighting gift pack courtesy of LockandMane.com


There is a global malady that is affecting women across the globe. This epidemic is Frizz and it truly is a cross-cultural conundrum. We here at the Lock & Mane team were road testing some of our products on a recent trip to rural Kenya with the group Koins for Kenya (www.koinsforkenya.org). Our girlfriend Gladys who lives in a teeny tiny village that hasn’t received rainfall for over two years told us two things that would make her life easier would be if her husband stopped nagging her and two if she could figure out a way to control her frizzy hair. Even in the face of major hardship frizz remains an issue.



We want to share out top ten tricks and tips for managing frizzy hair. Some of them are easy-peasey and some of them include some of the products we carry. But any time we mention a product we want you to know that we have road tested these puppies on the worst of our own frizz (think Miami in July).



1. When letting your hair dry naturally don’t run your fingers through it or touch it excessively until it is totally dry, especially on rainy and humid days. The more you touch your hair the more the oil and static from your skin contributes to flyaway pieces



2. Frizzy hair is frizzy because it is resisting moisture. Leave in conditioners like the Phillip B. Lovin’ Leave-in Conditioner (http://www.lockandmane.com/lovin-leave-in-conditioner-2.html) help to rehydrate your locks during the day.



3. When blow-drying, use a nozzle on your dryer to direct heat down the hair shaft, smoothing it out. There is a myth out there that tells people with naturally curly hair that to embrace their curls they should flip and scrunch their hair as it dries. Never flip your head over when drying. It only reinforces frizz.



4. Apply a no-frizz product before drying and styling. We like Philip B's Formula 57. (http://tinyurl.com/nqhwlx)



5. A lot of shampoos and conditioners that claim they fight frizz don’t really work all that well but we cannot rave enough about Living Proof’s (www.livingproof.com) products. Their No Frizz shampoo and conditioner contain molecules designed by a team of MIT scientists to actually coat the hair and prevent frizz.



6. Try not to wash hair every day. Daily washing strips hair of natural oils and brings out the frizz. If you can’t handle skipping the wash, alternate regular shampoo with a dry shampoo like Klorane’s Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk (http://www.lockandmane.com/cleanse-condition/dry-shampoos/gentle-dry-shampoo-with-oat-milk-aerosol-spray.html).



7. Trim those split ends. It actually does keep hair smoother and shinier by preventing the split from continuing up the hair shaft.



8. Always carry a silk scarf! It acts as a stylish and chic barrier to humidity and rainfall.



9. After washing do a final rinse with cold water to smooth the hair cuticle.



10. Drink plenty of water. Yes everyone says eight glasses a day is good for your skin, but it is good for your hair too. Keeping hydrated on the inside always shows through on the outside.

Natural Hair Watch: Trey Songz "Invented Sex" Video

As much as I think that Trey is such a cutie pie, I'm actually more excited to see this vid because of his leading lady's head of hair. It's such a refreshing change to see her lush, natural curls. I'm a Hairnista that loves her weaves, but it's nice to see this look getting front and center treatment for a change. I'll be sure to post a link to the full vid when it airs.

Does anyone have any info on his pretty passenger? She may just end up being a Hairnista-to-watch.

My Latest Protein Fix: Elasta QP Breakage Serum

At my fellow Hairnista GirlySwag's urging I finally tried this product. It has become a staple in her protein regimen, and since she has one of the best heads of hair I know, I gave it a go. My usual mild protein treatment is the Aphogee 2 MInute Keratin Treatment and I was curious to see how this serum would stack up. The difference in this product is that it is heat-activated...it calls for a capful of the product to be applied to wet hair and then to cover with a plastic cap and sit under heat for about 12-15 minutes. When I first applied the slightly clear, brownish tinted liquid to my hair it started to get sudsy like shampoo. I sectioned my hair off to make sure I got everything. But if you have very thick hair like me you will need 2 capfuls to get the job done. I did this treatment at home before I went to the salon to get my hair blow-dried and flat-ironed. My hair feels extremely strong and I haven't seen any shedding since my appointment last Wednesday. For the price (under $6) I definitely recommend it as an addition to your product arsenal that won't break your budget.

Quick how-to:
Wash your hair with your fave moisturizing shampoo
Apply a capful of Elasta QP Breakage Serum (or more depending on your length/thickness)
Sit under a hooded dryer for 12-15 minutes
Rinse out and follow up with your fave DC

I'd recommend doing this treatment once every 2 to 3 weeks.

Event Fab : Keep A Child Alive Ball

Some of my favorite Celeb Hairnistas partied it up for a good cause in NYC last night. The ultimate stand-outs for me were Iman and Halle Berry...can either woman get anymore stunning with time? I swear I want some of what they're drinking. Iman is flawless as usual with a deep side part and asymmetrical bob. Halle is back to one of my favorite looks for her...ultra-short and spiky. Head to toe each one is just totally shutting down women half their age! Paula Patton also gets a mention from me for her overall look. She's such a pretty woman and I love that she's gone edgy with the bouffant and gladiator shoes.

All three women are definitely inspiration for all of us when we're getting ready for our next night on the town. If you are a Hairnista of a certain age, it doesn't mean the game is over. Continue to push the boundaries of hair and fashion...while keeping it age appropriate of course.

On a side note: Iman's hair and wig game is ridiculous. I would love to see her collection!


images via theYBF.com

No Ma'am!

I have refrained from giving my thoughts on the latest incarnations of Miss Rih Rih's do as of late. But I can't hold my tongue any longer...NO MA'AM! I am all for pushing the boundaries of style, but I feel like in her stylist's quest to keep her one step ahead they have take two steps back. From the blonde pieces (poorly blended) to the slick-back...I just wonder will this beautiful girl will have any hair left when it is all said and done.

Your thoughts Hairnistas?

images via Bossip

Wigging Out - Nia Long Covers Essence

Nia Long has always been a fave of this Hairnista. From Boys In the Hood 'til now we've watched her style transform over the years...wigs, weaves, and even her super cute short 'do a la The Best Man that ALMOST tempted me to go for the short cut. On the November cover of Essence magazine she doesn't disappoint. I wasn't sure what she was "wearing" at first glance, but on a recent appearance on The Wendy Williams Show Nia confirmed that she was rocking a wig (and a great one i might add). This is definitely one I'll have to go to my resources to re-create. One of these days I will take a pic and show all of you my wig crypt :)

My only gripe is that they went overboard on the retouching. She gives some of the best face in the biz and I think they did her a disservice with this one.

"Mixed Chicks - Is it really for every chick? My Review"

As a curly Hairnista I'm always on the look out for great products to define my curls and get rid of the dreaded frizz. Mixed Chicks is a product line that I've heard good things about online and from friends, but I was still hesitant to try it. According to their website their leave-in is " a curl-defining formula designed for us, and when we say, "us", we mean "many." Even if you aren't mixed, you may have frizz and unruly curls. MIXED CHICKS you're Black, White, Asian, Latin, Mediterranean, or any glorious
combination of the above, you'll love the way these non-sticky, lightweight, products leave your hair inviting to touch." My super-thick, frothy, curly hair was totally giving this the side-eye lol! But I persevered...after washing my hair I applied the leave-in. I had two samples from a beauty event I'd attended a few weeks ago. Before I jumped in a bought the bottle (10oz/$16.99) I wanted to know if it worked and how much I'd really need. My hair uses a LOT of product, so it has to be cost effective for me. But I digress--back to the review :)

I liked that the product wasn't heavy, and immediately after applying my curls looked more defined. The true test however would be after my hair dried. As I applied the leave-in it turned white, which had me a little nervous, but it disappeared as it dried. And the end result was soft, defined curls. On a basic level the leave-in does exactly what it says it does: frizz-free, defined curls. So for that I can't fault it at all. My hair though has shrinkage and I like products that give me definition and help stretch my curls (ex Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In)

So overall I give Mixed Chicks Leave-In conditioner a thumbs up...especially if your hair is in the type 2-3 category. For those of you that have more type 4 than 3 then you'll appreciate the curl definition but may want to experiment with other products to elongate your curls.

Cover Watch: Chanel Iman & Jourdan Dunn

These two gorgeous girls have graced the catwalks of every major designer and fashion mag and are definitely Hairnistas-to-Watch. Chanel and Jourdan cover the November issue of Teen Vogue sporting a classic look that every Hairnista would do well to perfect. Their slicked back low pony is a style that is perfect year-round, but especially this fall. Pair with a clean face of simple makeup (lashes of course) and a deep hue for your lip (NARS Funnyface is my staple this fall $25 @ Sephora) and you will be ready to cover any magazine!

To get this look: Brush all of your hair back into a low ponytail using a boar bristle brush to smooth any flyaways. Use a covered elastic band to prevent any breakage. If you have long hair take a small piece and wrap it around to cover the elastic and secure it with a bobby pin. If you need a little something extra to achieve this look, dig into your Hairnista Toolkit and use your trusty clip-ins for added length. Once you clip in the pieces follow the same easy steps.

image via The YBF

FLAWLESS

I love, love , LOVE everything about this look! The blunt bangs, long soft waves, and that headpiece is to die for. I've been searching for a great one to wear myself. Naomi always gives FEVAH on the runway and this is no different. While her hairline has been known to give me great worry, when she is "on," there is no model Hairnista that can rival her. I swear whatever she's eating/drinking I need to know because this woman's body just gets better and better each time I see her.

I can't wait to try out this look w/ one of my wigs. I have a wavy lacefront that has been totally reworked...it now has bangs cut into it and it is flat-ironed bone straight. However if I re-wet the sides and flat-iron the bangs I may be in business. I'll keep you guys posted.

(now off to figure out if i can work this chiffon/leotard number into my wardrobe) :)


image via Bossip

Back To Basics: Kim Kardashian

With every new picture I see of Miss K I'm overjoyed all over again she is back to her fabulous brunette self. I know the saying is "blondes have more fun," but i venture to say that brunettes "shut it down!" She's giving you lush waves a la Veronica Lake...one of my personal fave styles. And of course the red soles just top it off (I'm a CL girl and they are the perfect finish for any look).

To recreate this look: Set hair on large hot rollers or use a big barrel curling iron to add body. Then use paddle brush to create the deep wave pattern. Set with a light holding spray and you're out the door.

*pics from JustJared.com*

How good is "Good Hair?" GREAT!

I had the pleasure of going to a special screening held in Atlanta last week and although I had some initial reservations, I was totally blown away. I won't turn this into a political or emotional discussion (there are enough of those all over the web). I will just say that I'm glad Chris has started this public dialogue and helps all to realize that hair doesn't have to be a taboo topic.

I also enjoyed Chris on Oprah today...and she further showed that she is a Hairnista after my own heart. We all know I love my weaves (Indian hair of course), wigs, falls, clip-ins, you name it. But underneath it all, I have a head of strong, healthy, steadily growing hair. Whether you choose to relax your locks, be a curly girl, or rock a head of fabulous color...do it for you :)

When you all go see the film (and everyone of you should) please let me know your thoughts. Is he on the mark? Or way out in left field?